The best organic dog foods listed below must meet strict guidelines established by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
Unfortunately…
Due to the tightly regulated way in which they’re produced, organic recpipes tend to be hard to find in stores.
In general…
Organic dog foods can be grouped into 2 categories…
- Certified organic
- Partially organic
By law…
Certified organic dog foods must contain at least 95% organic ingredients. They’re easy to spot… because they’re the only recipes permitted to display the official “USDA Organic” seal on their packaging.
Certified organic foods are rare.
Truth is…
Most organic dog foods sold in the U.S. are partially organic… which means they contain varying amounts of organic ingredients… specified on the label.
On this page…
We’ll share our most recommended organic dog food brands… and we’ll answer the 5 most frequently asked questions we get about organic dog food.
The Best Organic Dog Food
May 2023
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s top-rated organic brands for May 2023.
Tender and True Organic Dog Food
Tender and True Chicken and Liver Recipe is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Tender and True dry product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic tapioca starch, organic dried pea, organic chickpea
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Turkey, chicken, salmon, ocean whitefish, and more
- Price: $$$
- See both available recipes
Tender and True Chicken and Liver derives the vast majority of its animal protein from both chicken meal and fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 18% fat and 45% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
Tender and True is USDA certified organic… which makes each recipe a rare find for discerning dog owners.
Sample buyer review… “My dog had eczema and allergies. Since switching to the pesticide free dog food, chicken and liver flavor, her eczema is gone. I highly recommend going organic. I really like that the chickens were humanely raised as well.”
Gather Free Acres Dog Food
Gather Free Acres is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Gather product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic dehydrated chicken, organic peas, lentils, chicken fat
- Type: Grain-free
- Price: $$$
- See all 3 available recipes
Gather Free Acres gets the lion’s share of its meat protein from fresh chicken and dehydrated chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat and 42% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
In addition to Gather’s certified organic ingredients, each recipe also contains a balanced blend of healthy omega 3 and omega 6 fats. A top choice.
Sample buyer review… “My dog Daisy has a sensitive stomach and has been having all sorts of problems due to her food that she didn’t even like. I switched her to this food and she has made a 180 turn around for the better. I’m very happy with this product.”
Castor and Pollux Organix Organic Dog Food
Castor and Pollux Organix Chicken and Sweet Potato is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Castor and Pollux Organix Grain Free product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken meal, organic sweet potatoes, organic potatoes, organic peas
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Puppy, senior, small breed, and more
- Price: $$$
- See all 3 available recipes
Organix Chicken and Sweet Potato derives the bulk of its animal protein from both fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 17% fat and 46% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
Each recipe is fully USDA certified organic… a fact which not only applies to every ingredient but also the line’s entire manufacturing process.
Castor and Pollux Organix is one of The Dog Food Advisor’s all-time favorite organic brands.
Sample buyer review… “This food has been the best that I have ever experienced with my dogs’ health after 15 years of owning dogs. Their energy, their coat, their teeth and the true sign of dog health (yes, the stuff they leave you in the yard) has all showed me how good this food is for them. It is truly worth the extra money and makes me feel great knowing that there aren’t pesticides in my dog food that are found in non-organic brands. (Vets are astonished by the increase of cancers in both dogs and cats in the past 15 years which many attribute to increased pesticide use.)”
Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food
Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Recipe is one of 8 dehydrated recipes included in our review of the Honest Kitchen product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Dehydrated chicken, organic barley, dehydrated potatoes, organic flaxseed, organic oats
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, oats)
- Other recipes: Fish, turkey, beef, various grain-free recipes and more
- Price: $$$
- See all available recipes
This Whole Grain Chicken formulation derives the bulk of its meat protein from dehydrated chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 15% fat and 50% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
In addition to its multiple organic ingredients, each recipe is processed in a human grade food processing facility.
And each component is non genetically modified (non-GMO) and free of any chemicals or preservatives. All meat ingredients are hormone and antibiotic free, too.
Sample buyer review… “My German Shepherd is a fussy eater, with his fair share of allergies. I’ve tried all different brands and this one makes my Shermy happy. It’s a great price, easy meal prep and super filling for him. This is the first brand of food I don’t have to add anything or convince him to eat what I put down for him. I think I finally found a food we will be sticking with!”
Newman’s Own Organic Dog Food
Newman’s Own Organics Grain Free Chicken and Liver is one of 3 canned recipes included in our review of the Newman’s Own Organics Grain Free product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken broth, organic chicken liver, tricalcium phosphate, organic pea flour
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Beef, liver, turkey, and more
- Price: $$
- See all 3 available recipes
This Newman’s Own Chicken and Liver recipe derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 46% protein, 32% fat and 15% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
A top-rated, fully certified organic dog food made by a company that donates 100% of its profits to charity. A quality feed.
Sample buyer review… “Our dog loves Newman’s Own canned dog food. We tried this (Organics) Chicken & Liver Dinner version. It is Grain Free and has a “soft” consistency that is perfect for our older dog (that has only a few teeth left). It is a bit more expensive than the “green” can Chicken & Wild Rice version and it has a strong smell, which is a bit offputting. But, our dog loves it, so that’s what matters.”
Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinners
Stella and Chewy’s Venison Blend is one of 13 raw recipes included in our review of the Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Venison, lamb, lamb liver, venison liver, venison lung
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Beef, chicken, duck, turkey, rabbit and more
- Price: $$$
- See all 13 available recipes
This Venison Blend recipe derives the largest share of its animal protein from both venison and lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 47% protein, 32% fat and 13% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Stella and Chewy’s promises all its frozen and freeze-dried raw recipes include vitamins and minerals sourced from 100% certified organic fruits and vegetables.
A top-rated, freeze-dried dog food for those not requiring organic meat. Recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “My pretty pittie is allergic to everything, beef, chicken, lamb, tomato (which is in most dog food) grain, etc. It was also recommended that we go with raw food. We have tried many brands of venison, duck, bison and wild boar. This by far is her favorite food. It is easy to store because most of the other brands were frozen. We feed her 2 1/2 “pucks” broken up and mixed with grain free dry food 2x a day. We typically add water to the pucks but she also enjoys them dry right out of the bag.”
Carna4 Dog Food
Carna4 Chicken is one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Carna4 product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Fresh chicken, chicken liver, eggs, organic sprouted barley seed, wild salmon
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, rice)
- Other recipes: Grain-free duck and grain-free fish
- Price: $$$
- See all 3 available recipes
This Carna4 formula derives most of its animal protein from both fresh chicken and chicken liver. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 17% fat and 43% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Features a number of plant-based, organic ingredients. A quality formulation worthy of consideration.
Sample buyer review… “You will notice the difference in your dog within a few days of switching them to this dry kibble. All of our dogs (2 Seniors, 1 Adult and 3 Puppies) all love the food. They are happier, healthier looking and acting (shiny eyes, shiny coat, more energy, no tummy troubles ie. vomiting/diarreah no itching skin or scratching).”
Organix Butcher and Bushel Dog Food
Carved Turkey Dinner is one of 5 organic wet recipes included in our review of the Castor and Pollux Organix product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic turkey, organic chicken broth, water sufficient for processing, organic chicken, organic chicken liver
- Type: Grain-free
- Price: $$
- See all available recipes
This Organix Butcher and Bushel recipe derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Based on dry matter, this recipe contains 42% protein, 21% fat and 29% estimated carbs, which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
Made in a fully certified organic kitchen. There’s no corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors or preservatives. Also includes probiotics to support healthy digestion.
A superior canned organic dog food. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My senior dog, who intermittently turns her nose up at a meal, loves this dog food. It has lots of gravy to make her meals moist and appealing. Appreciate the organic, healthy ingredients.”
Tender and True Organic Dog Food
Organic Chicken and Liver Recipe is one of 2 wet products included in our review of the Tender and True Canned product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, water sufficient for processing, organic pea Flour, organic chicken liver, organic chicken heart
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Turkey and Liver formula
- Price: $$
- See both available recipes
This Tender and True organic formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Based on dry matter, this recipe contains 39% protein, 23% fat and 31% estimated carbs… which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 59%.
A smooth, finely-chopped pate consistency. It’s 100% complete and balanced nutrition with added vitamins, minerals and other trace nutrients.
Fully organic. Contains no grain, GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy. Also free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. A quality wet diet. Recommended with confidence.
Sample buyer review… “My dog is the pickiest dog i have ever had, never wanted to eat anything, always turning his nose up at everything I put him in front of him. Someone suggested Tender and True and it has been a complete turnaround, he cant wait to eat. Cleans the bowl as if her were starving. I highly recommend this product.”
Castor and Pollux Organix Tiny Feasts
Castor and Pollux Organix Tiny Feasts Chicken Recipe is one of 6 organic wet formulas included in our review of the Castor and Pollux Organix Tiny Feasts product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, organic chicken broth, organic chicken liver, organic spinach, organic dried peas
- Type: Grain-free
- Other recipes: Chicken recipes, turkey recipes and more
- Price: $$
- See all 6 available recipes
Castor and Pollux Organix Tiny Feasts gets most of its meat protein from fresh chicken. he recipe contains 43% protein, 27% fat and 22% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Castor and Pollux is the leading producer of top-rated certified organic pet foods. And this recipe lives up to the brand’s outstanding reputation for quality. Due to its smaller physical size, this recipe makes an excellent feeding choice for smaller dogs. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I have a little girl who is skin and tummy sensitive, the Organix line is super! She is like a new dog now. At 14 she was doing terrible, now that she is on Organix she is doing great. I use this to top off the dry food and she loves it. She gets so excited while I am mixing it together she starts barking now for her food in anticipation. I would highly recommend this. I am sure you could use this alone if you wanted to do so. Great product.”
Party Animal Original Dog Food
Party Animal Original is the sole organic dry recipe included in our review of the Party Animal product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Organic chicken, chicken meal, organic oats, organic barley, organic peas
- Type: Grain-inclusive (oats, barley, rice)
- Price: $$$
Party Animal Original derives the greatest portion of its meat protein from fresh organic chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26% protein, 16% fat and 51% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 61%.
The brand is not only organic, it’s also free of any corn, wheat or soy. The balanced, wholesome design features USDA-certified organic chicken. A top organic contender in the wet food space makes Party Animal easy to recommend.
Sample buyer review… “Glad to find this healthy organic dog food for our 3 rescue dogs. They love this food and coming running when time to feed them. Better yet it is made in the United States by a family owned company, who believes in making quality dog food.”
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Organic Dog Food
What is organic dog food?
Organic dog food is made from ingredients grown without pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or ionizing radiation.
Animals used to produce meat, poultry, eggs, or dairy products must not have been fed antibiotics or growth hormones.
What are the 3 types of organic dog food?
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) recognizes 3 categories of organic products:
- 100% Organic: Made with 100% organic ingredients
- Organic: Made with at least 95% organic ingredients
- Made with Organic Ingredients: Made with a minimum of 70% organic ingredients with strict restrictions on the remaining 30% (including no GMOs)
Dog foods containing less than 70% organic ingredients may list these items on the side panel… but they may not make organic claims on the front of the package.
How much more does organic dog food cost?
Based on a 2019 study conducted by The Dog Food Advisor…
The average organic dog food is priced about 23% higher than a comparable size package of regular dog food.
But…
This highly specialized category of dog foods can sometimes be found selling for as much as 40% more than their conventional counterparts.
That’s because…
- Organic farmers don’t receive federal subsidies as some conventional farmers
- Organic farming is more costly than regular farming
- Organic farms are typically smaller… so they’re not able to benefit from the economies of scale enjoyed by larger growers
Is organic dog food better than regular dog food?
That depends on what’s important to you.
Truth is…
Based on 3 large studies, the nutrient differences between regular and organic dog foods appear to be only minimal.1
However, according to USDA data…
Organic foods do tend to contain fewer pesticide residues than conventionally grown produce.2
Which could be an important advantage to demanding dog owners.
What ingredients should I avoid when buying dog food?
Here are some of the most controversial ingredients found in many popular dog foods… and the health danger to which each may be linked:
| Ingredient | Type | Linked To |
|---|---|---|
| BHA | Preservative | Cancer |
| BHT | Preservative | Cancer |
| TBHQ | Preservative | Cancer |
| Ethoxyquin | Preservative | Liver pigmentation |
| Menadione | Synthetic vitamin | Hemolytic anemia |
| Artificial dyes | Colorant | Cancer |
| Propylene glycol | Moisturizer | Heinz body anemia |
| Generic “meat” | Unknown source | Food allergies |
To be sure you never unknowingly feed YOUR dog a food that contains any of these high-risk ingredients… be sure to favor recipes rated 4 stars or higher by The Dog Food Advisor.
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The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
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References
- Heinze, CR, Organic Pet Foods: Optimal Health or Overhyped?, Petfoodology, Clinical Nutrition Service, Cummings Veterinary Medical Center, Tufts University, August 14, 2018 ↩
- Should You Go Organic?, Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Medical School, September 2015 ↩
